For the past few months, I’ve been on the front line of the challenges to library materials deemed unsafe, overtly sexual, and too mature for library users under the age of 18.

I fully appreciate and recognize the concerns of these community members who seek to protect the innocence of youth within our community.

As a parent and private citizen in the Alpena community, I do wonder what work they have done to help eliminate the legality of child marriage within the country. Do they foster at-risk kids in need of a home? Are they supporting the educators within our community who are called upon to be social workers and therapists in addition to teaching our kids? Do they believe children who report abusive situations? Are they actively helping minors identify what sexual abuse looks like? Are they working against social injustice for those living in poverty? Are they advocating for families facing homelessness or dealing with substance abuse? Are they calling their legislators and fighting for funding for basic social services? Are they volunteering at their local shelters and food pantries? Are they treating others the way they want to be treated? I wonder what they have done to help a child improve their speaking and literacy skills, if they’ve offered to help an overwhelmed mom manage her day-to-day. I wonder if any child they know truly feels safe and seen with them. Are they confident they are expending their energy and money towards what truly serves the youth of this community?

It really makes me wonder.

JESSICA LUTHER,

Alpena